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Austin

Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park

Walnut Creek is the best spot for beginners. It's not very technical and heavily travelled. That means you'll have a better chance of being able to pick up other riders and have people show you around. WC is a tangle of trails that go all over the park - they are two way trails, so keep an eye on where you are going.

There is a large 11-12 mile "loop" that many people ride, this starts from the parking lot by rhe pool, you start out to your right, past the maintenance shed and follow what's left of the arrow trail markers (some bonehead keeps trying to take them...)

There are 3-4 creek crossings that can be anywhere from bone dry to a foot deep depending on the time of year. Watch out for roots and loose dirt. Because it is heavily travelled, WC can be subject to heavier erosion so stay on the trails, don't widen ruts and do NOT ride it after it has rained (always ask first).

Location:Located Southwest of the intersection of Parmer and Lamar in North Austin.

Directions:From I-35 exit Parmer and head west. The first stoplight is Lamar, go south and turn in on the right just past the Vietnamese temple at Yager. Park is clearly marked. From MoPac exit Parmer and headc east. About 1/4 mile before Lamar, take a right on Willow Wild and follow that into the park.

Technical Level:Low, perfect for beginners. Few ledges, not too many climbs, no problem for hardtails or light suspension. Lots of trees, some narrow passes and tight turns so watch your handlebars.

Length: There is a "main loop" that is about 11 miles, but it is such a twist of trails that you could probably ride 20 miles and cover very little ground twice.

Trails: Typically hard-pressed dirt, relatively smooth. Few rocks or other obstacles. Watch out for roots, they can throw you. Trial is two way so watch for other riders, pedestrians and especially dogs during the weekends.